How to use a hammer drill

LAST UPDATED: 8th January 2023 by The Editorial Team

How to use a hammer drill

Summary: Step by step guide and video showing how to use a hammer drill, how to drill stone or concrete and how to use a hammer drill safely.

Using an SDS hammer drill

This type of drill incorporates a hammer action motion, which provides the drill with quick, powerful thrusts to help penetrate strong surfaces. The hammer drill is designed especially for making holes in masonry and concrete.

The hammer action makes the job of drilling much easier and faster, as it aids the rotary motion associated with normal drills.

  • Firstly you need to understand that there are different types of hammer drill. Some are more powerful than others, while some have additional functions such being reversible, allowing the drill to be changed back into the standard drill mode.
  • You should decide whether you want a cordless drill or perhaps you want the added comfort of having a handle fitted to the front of the machine to aid stability. Both of these options increase safety considerably and are good options if you are inexperienced with this tool.
  • Before use, you must have the drill bit inserted into the chuck. This can be done using a chuck key. In some cases, the model requires that you fasten the bit into the chuck by hand or by squeezing the trigger of the drill. The rotating drill will tighten the bit automatically. Whichever method is used, make sure the chuck is correctly tightened around the drill bit before you start work.
  • Always make sure the drill bit you are using is suitable for the task and is sharp enough. Blunt bits will make the job much harder and may cause the machine to strain under pressure.
  • Keep the air vents on the drill clear at all times to prevent the motor from over-heating. Some drills offer vacuum assisted dust collection systems which include a suction tube located near the bit. This is an excellent addition if drilling materials that produce lots of dust, especially if you are working in a space with little ventilation.
  • Safety goggles are an essential piece of safety equipment when using tools such as the hammer drill.

Safety

  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Make sure you wear PPE, including goggles and ear protection,

Hammer drill vs. regular drill video

How to use a corded hammer drill video

Author

The Editorial Team

The Editorial Team at lets-do-diy.com are a team of experts led by Mark Wilson. We have been creating DIY projects, articles, costs guides and product reviews since 2008. For more info see our about page.